The Smithsonian National Zoo held their eighth annual Brew at the Zoo benefit this past week. Apparently no one can say no to llamas, lions or beers, evident since the event sold out days before. Spread over one of the Zoo’s open areas, the benefit was packed with people tasting over 60 craft and microbrews (Capitol City, Abita, Chocolate City, DC Brau, Port City, Redhook, Saranac, Dogfish Head, Allegash and Devil’s Backbone, just to name ten). VIP attendees were able to get up close and personal with a llama, small mammals and lizards, but everyone could visit the majestic lion oasis. The District’s biggest beer and conservation fans toasted to various good causes at the National Zoo: animal care, education, wildlife conservation, and research efforts. All the while, a baby animal was born: The Pale Alephant, a new brew from Port City Brewery, was created and named for the occasion. Fueled by food from the likes of Pepe, BLT Steak, Jack Rose, Tonic, Rocklands, Red Hook and Goodies, DC’s finest took a few hours out of their Thursday night to talk shop, beer and animal welfare.